Easy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for Dinner are the kind of cozy, comforting meal that saves busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor. With tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and warm tortillas baked until crisp, this recipe delivers big satisfaction using simple ingredients you probably already have.
These taquitos are baked instead of fried, making them lighter and less messy, yet still perfectly crunchy. They are ideal for family dinners, casual entertaining, or even meal prep because they freeze beautifully. Once you try them, they will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
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Why You’ll Love These Easy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for Dinner
There are so many reasons this recipe becomes a repeat favorite.
First, it is incredibly easy. The filling comes together in one bowl, and the oven does all the work. No deep frying, no splattering oil, and no complicated steps.
Second, the flavor is rich and comforting. Cream cheese adds a smooth, mellow richness that pairs perfectly with seasoned chicken and melty shredded cheese. Every bite feels warm and satisfying.
Third, it is flexible. You can swap ingredients based on what you have, adjust the spice level, or serve it with different dips to change things up.
Finally, these taquitos are family friendly. Kids love the creamy filling, and adults appreciate how customizable they are. Serve them with sides for dinner or on their own for a fun, relaxed meal.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for Dinner
Main Ingredients
- 8 small flour tortillas or corn tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup salsa verde
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Optional Toppings and Dips
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Extra salsa verde
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken:
Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here and saves time. You can also use leftover baked or boiled chicken breasts or thighs.
Cream Cheese:
Full fat cream cheese gives the richest flavor, but reduced fat cream cheese also works well if you want a lighter option.
Cheese:
Monterey Jack melts smoothly and has a mild flavor. You can substitute mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend if needed.
Tortillas:
Flour tortillas roll easily and stay soft, while corn tortillas offer a more traditional flavor. If using corn tortillas, warm them first to prevent cracking.
Spice Level:
Salsa verde adds gentle heat. Choose mild or medium depending on your preference. For extra spice, add a pinch of chili powder or diced green chiles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, salsa verde, and ground cumin. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas
If using flour tortillas, you can roll them as is. If using corn tortillas, warm them in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel. This helps prevent splitting.
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one side of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden and crisp. For extra browning, you can broil for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dips and toppings.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
- Do not overfill the tortillas, as this can cause them to burst while baking.
- Place taquitos seam side down to keep them from unrolling.
- Spraying the tops lightly with oil helps them crisp evenly.
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet if you want extra crispiness on all sides.
- Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the filling sets.
Flavor Variations
- Noticeably Cheesy: Add an extra 1/4 cup of shredded cheese to the filling.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or spinach.
- Tex Mex Style: Add a pinch of chili powder and smoked paprika.
- Mild and Creamy: Use plain tomato salsa instead of salsa verde.
- Protein Swap: Replace half the chicken with black beans for a hearty twist.
Serving Suggestions
These taquitos are versatile and pair well with many sides.
Serve them with a simple green salad for a balanced dinner. They also go great with Spanish style rice or cilantro lime rice. For a cozy spread, add bowls of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa and let everyone customize their plate.
They are also perfect for casual gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces and watch them disappear quickly.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerating:
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Freezing:
To freeze, assemble the taquitos but do not bake them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
Easy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for Dinner
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Easy baked chicken taquitos filled with creamy cream cheese, shredded chicken, and melted cheese, then baked until crispy. This simple, family-friendly dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, casual entertaining, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup salsa verde
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic, salsa verde, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- If using corn tortillas, warm them briefly to prevent cracking.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam side down on the baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray.
- Bake for 15 to 17 minutes until golden and crispy. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes if desired.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm with desired toppings.
Notes
Do not overfill the tortillas to prevent splitting. Spraying lightly with oil helps the taquitos bake up golden and crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQ About Easy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for Dinner
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the taquitos up to one day ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Are baked taquitos crispy?
They are pleasantly crispy on the outside while staying soft and creamy inside. Spraying them lightly with oil before baking helps achieve a golden, crisp finish.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor.
What is the best way to reheat taquitos?
Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 4 to 5 minutes. This keeps them crisp compared to microwaving.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use certified gluten-free corn tortillas and double-check that your salsa and seasonings are gluten fregluten-freee.
Final Thoughts
Easy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for Dinner are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and satisfying. With minimal prep, a creamy filling, and a crisp baked shell, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or make ahead meals.
Once you see how easy and delicious these taquitos are, you will find yourself coming back to them again and again.